Cooperative Education FAQs

So, what is Cooperative Education (Co-op) all about?

Cooperative Education gives students an opportunity to try out career options prior
to graduation. Students gain valuable career-related experience while earning academic
credit and money. After graduation, students usually find that their Co-op position
makes them more attractive to prospective employers. In addition, they often receive
higher salary offers than students without Co-op experience.

What are the qualifications for Co-op?

Matriculated undergraduate student

Completed a minimum of 60 credits

Minimum GPA of 2.0

Open to all majors

Why should I participate in a Co-op?

You will earn a wage from the Cooperative education employer

You will earn elective credit

It is a valuable tool in career decision making

It offers you the opportunity to try out career opportunities prior to graduation

After graduation, students usually find it make them attractive to prospective employers

Do I need a resume?

Yes, a resume is required. Set-up an appointment with a Career Advisor for assistance
with developing your resume.

How do I start the application process for Co-op?

You need to schedule an appointment to meet with a Career Advisor to begin the Co-op
application process by calling (203) 392-6536 or stopping by the Center for Career
Services in the Wintergreen building.

Once your resume is approved, you will be given access to potential Co-op experiences.

Will I receive college credit for my Co-op experience?

Yes, you will receive elective credit.

How many credits can I earn through Co-op?

1-12 elective credits are awarded upon successful completion of the employment period.

Am I given a grade for the Co-op?

A Pass/Fail grade is given upon successful completion of the Co-op.

Am I guaranteed a Co-op job?

Economic and job market conditions can impact the availability of jobs and the success
of students being hired.

What are the Co-op work Periods?

Co-op opportunities can last for a semester, summer, or six months, and can be either
full-time or part-time.

What type of Co-op opportunities are available?

There are a wide variety of opportunities available to students. We work closely with
students to assist them in finding a Co-op experience. Students can also discuss with
us any jobs that they have pursued on their own, to determine if the jobs could be
used as a Co-op opportunity.

Do participating employers ever hire Co-op students after the Co-op term has ended?

There is no obligation on the part of the employer or student to continue employment
at the end of the Co-op work period. National statistics show nearly half of students
that participate in a Co-op go on to receive full-time employment with that company.
(NACE 2008 Executive Summary, Experiential Education Survey)